Welcome to Madrid!
Spain has something for everyone. Stretching from the snowy mountains of the northeast to the famous beaches of the south, Spain is one of the world's most diverse nations. Spain is also a great spot for history buffs, with 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From its Roman relics to Muslim palaces, to its Baroque cathedrals and Modernista constructions, this country is a treasure chest of artistic and architectural marvels across a matchless cultural palette.
More than 30 years of democracy and rapid economic development have spurred Spain's cities to adorn themselves with sparkling new ornaments. Madrid is the capital of Spain and located in the center of the country. It has a long and interesting history of development that adds depth to its vibrant modernity. There is a vast array of activities to do in Madrid- from seeing museums and historical sites, to the sporting events and night life. It is also easy to traverse Madrid by foot and metro, making it easy to see everything and commute.
Why Intern in Madrid?
The cultural center of Spain, Madrid offers the opportunity to explore a breadth and depth of Spanish culture from architecture to food, from music to history, and from the Spanish economy to the cultural diversity that the city encompasses. And of course the Spanish love of sports! Madrid offers the opportunity to intern in English or Spanish. Madrid is a great place to intern for most career fields, but is an especially excellent location for interns interested in Accounting, Business, Economics, Fashion, Finance, Human Services, Law, Marketing, Public Relations and Real Estate.
Career Fields Available in Madrid
Check out our internship opportunities in Madrid below!
- Agriculture and Veterinary Science
- Architecture and Urban Planning
- Arts and Humanities
- Business and Marketing
- Communication, Media, and PR
- Education
- Engineering
- Environmental and Sustainability Studies
- Fashion
- Film and TV
- Health
- Hospitality, Events, and Tourism
- IT and Computer Science
- Legal Studies and Advocacy
- Performing and Visual Arts
- Political Science
- Psychology and Social Work
- Research
- Science and Math
- Sports and Exercise
Madrid was one of the most welcoming and such a diverse city. The connections I have made as well as skills I have learned will last me a lifetime. If you’re on the fence about interning abroad, do it you will not regret it.
Lucee K.
Missouri State University
Orientations, Excursions, & Activities
Your program will start with a multi-day orientation in Madrid where you will enjoy a city tour and other excursions as well as receive pertinent information about how to be most successful in your internship abroad. Throughout your program, you will have the chance to go on weekend trips, day trips, and optional trips. ISA excursions allow you to explore the timeless, quaint, and historical landscape of Spain (and potentially surrounding countries) that you may not have the chance to visit on your own. The locations below are a sample of included and optional excursions that have run in the past. Please know that these are subject to change.
Toledo
Your visit to Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will begin with a panoramic bus tour of Toledo's unique hilltop then will continue on to the monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, Santa María la Blanca synagogue, Santo Tomé Church, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria.
Valencia
Valencia is famous for its beaches, oranges, paella, and is known as the "City of Arts and Sciences", with an eye-catching cultural complex hosting museums, performing arts, and the biggest aquarium in Europe. After exploring the city, you will have the chance to enjoy a fabulous day on the beach, taking part in water sports such as paddle boarding, surfing, canoeing, etc. A 100% Mediterranean experience!
Cultural Activities in Madrid
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Madrid. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Madrid special. These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included cooking classes, museum visits (Reina Sofia and El Prado), tours of the Royal Palace and activities in Retiro Park.
Housing Details
ISA Housing provides the opportunity for interns to experience aspects of the Spanish lifestyle that are inaccessible to the average visitor of Spain. All ISA housing options are either within walking distance to the ISA office and internship locations or conveniently located near public transportation. Travel times to internship sites generally range between 15 and 60 minutes depending on housing locations. Please note: All housing is subject to availability.
The experience of living in another culture will be both educational and rewarding as long as you stay open-minded at all times. There are differences in culture and lifestyle between life in Spain and the U.S. Remember: the key to a positive experience is flexibility. With this in mind, you can become a true Español/a!
Home Stay
- Homestays may be utilized at times depending on the location of your placement and the distance of your commute.
- If a homestay will be necessary for your program your ISA Program Manager or Internship Placement Coordinator will discuss this with you during your placement process.
- A fantastic cultural experience and full immersion into Madrid by living with a local family.
Apartments
- Located near public transit routes and
- Fully furnished with a fully-equipped kitchen.
- The number of participants per apartments vary from apartment to apartment.
Student Residence
- A cross between dorm-style living and a boarding house.
- Located off campus and are not affiliated to a university
- All residents are students.
- The number of participants per room vary by city.
Travel Visa Information
Participants must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months AFTER their expected departure date from Spain.
U.S. Citizens
U.S. citizens are not required to apply for a visa before departing for Spain if their program is 90 days or less.
Non-U.S. Citizens
Please note that non-U.S. citizens should contact their Consulate to verify specific entry requirements. As these requirements vary based on citizenship, non-U.S. citizens may not be permitted to travel to Spain without a visa or outside of their visa dates. Also, visa fees for non-U.S. citizens may differ so please be sure to check specific consulate's website for the most up to date information.
Note: Embassy and Consulate contact information is subject to change without notice. Please refer to the website of the Embassy or Consulate to verify information.
